Edgbaston sets NatWest T20 Blast Finals Day record with sell out

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Edgbaston Stadium has confirmed a sell out for today’s NatWest T20 Blast Finals Day, with ticket sales for domestic cricket’s marquee event exceeding last year’s tournament record of 22,500 by more than 1,000.

Edgbaston hosts NatWest T20 Blast Finals Day for the sixth time today, with the occasion heightened this year by the Birmingham Bears’ qualification for the semi-finals for only the second time in the 12-year history of the tournament, and the first time at their home ground.

Colin Povey, Chief Executive at Edgbaston Stadium, said: “Last year’s Finals Day at Edgbaston set a new record attendance for the tournament and we’re thrilled to beat that this year, with around 23,500 spectators set to be in attendance today.

“Ticket sales before the quarter-final stage were already strong, but the Bears winning through to our first home Finals Day in-front of our Members and supporters has generated a great buzz around the Club.

“NatWest T20 Blast is one of the biggest days out in British sport. We are proud to be the home of Finals Day until at least 2016 and we are looking forward to a great event.”

Birmingham Bears take on Surrey in the first semi-final of NatWest T20 Blast Finals Day at 11am. Hampshire then face Lancashire Lightning at 2.30pm, with the winners meeting in Final at 6.45pm.

ECB Chief Operating Officer Gordon Hollins said: “This is fantastic news for the competition and reflects Edgbaston’s outstanding track record as a host venue for Finals Day. The home team’s presence on Saturday will also add extra spice to what promises to be a terrific cricketing occasion and a great way to round off a memorable season of NatWest T20 Blast action.”

As well as a today’s Finals Day record, Edgbaston’s ticket sales during the group games of the NatWest T20 Blast in 2014 increased by 55 per cent in volume to 38,895 and by 30 per cent in value in comparison to 2013. The Club also achieved its biggest attendance for a domestic match at Edgbaston since 2008, with 12,514 spectators witnessing the local derby against Worcestershire Rapids.

Gates open today at 9am on NatWest T20 Blast Finals Day and there will be entertainment, live music and an excellent selection of food and beverages available around the stadium throughout the day. Additionally, spectators are treated to the annual Mascot Derby, between all 18 counties, on the Edgbaston outfield between the two semi-finals.